Mood Nutrients in Eggs may Answer Winter Blues?
AUSTRALIA - According to the latest research from the Australian Egg Corporation Limited eggs may well provide an easy well to beat the winter blues. With the onset of winter in Australia many people may feel the affects of Seasonal Affective Disorder, but due to the 'mood nutrients' found in eggs, many of these issues may be last year's problems.
4 June 2008
3 minute read
While it’s easy to curl up on the couch and indulge in too much comfort food, new research has shown the simplest way to combat the winter blues and maintain a sunny outlook is via a diet high in ‘mood nutrients’ along with a regular dose of sunshine.
‘Mood nutrients’ such as folate, iron, protein, omega-3s and vitamin D have been shown to positively affect a person’s mood and help alleviate the signs of depression1.
As one of nature’s superfoods containing at least 11 vitamins and minerals, eggs are an excellent way to maintain good nutrition and provide your body with a range of important nutrients that may help improve your mood and keep your immune system strong during the colder winter months.
One serve (two x60g) eggs can contribute the following ‘mood nutrients’ to the diet:
| NUTRIENTS | % RDI* | OTHER ROLES OF THESE NUTRIENTS |
|---|---|---|
| Protein | 25% | Building and development of body enzymes, tissues and muscles |
| Iron | 14% | Carrying oxygen around the bloodstream, required for growth and energy production. Iron deficiency can result in fatigue and reduced performance |
| Vitamin D | 8% | Enhances the absorption of calcium and helps to maintain a healthy immune system. (Eggs are one of the only natural food sources of vitamin D). |
| Folate | 49% | Growth and maintenance of healthy cells and red blood cell production |
| Long chain Omega-3 | 71-127% AI** | Helps to keep your heart healthy |
| *Recommended dietary intake **Adequate intake |
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“Since eggs are one of the only natural food sources of vitamin D and contain a number of other vitamins and minerals important for a healthy immune system, they may be a useful addition to the diet during winter months, not only to avoid the winter blues but also to help improve immunity,” said Sharon Natoli, Accredited Practising Dietitian and Founding Director of Food & Nutrition Australia.
So stay positive this winter and be sure to eat your eggs. Try the delicious Quick Egg Pasta Primavera (recipe on next page) or visit www.eggs.org.au for more egg-inspired ideas to keep you going all winter long.
